Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the passing of Pope Francis from Casa Santa Marta early Monday morning. “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” he said.

Despite being gravely ill, Pope Francis made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, offering blessings to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square and delivering the Urbi et Orbi (“to the city and to the world”) blessing — one of the Church’s most solemn rites.

Just hours before his death, he met with U.S. Vice President Vance, continuing his commitment to global diplomacy and peace until the end.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became pontiff in March 2013 following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI — the first papal resignation since 1294. He inherited a Church rife with internal challenges and worked relentlessly toward reform. Known for his humility and devotion to the poor, he abandoned many of the luxuries associated with the papacy, preferring a simpler, more pastoral life.

Throughout his tenure, Francis was a tireless advocate for peace. He appointed special envoys to mediate during the Russia-Ukraine conflict and repeatedly called for ceasefires in the Middle East. On Easter Sunday, his message read:

“I appeal to all those in positions of political responsibility in our world not to yield to the logic of fear which only leads to isolation from others, but rather to use the resources available to help the needy, to fight hunger and to encourage initiatives that promote development.”

His papacy was marked by a deep engagement with global leaders. He met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an extended private audience in 2021 and again at the 2024 G7 Summit in Bari. Though he expressed a desire to visit India, the trip never materialized. Nevertheless, he made significant gestures toward the Indian Catholic community, elevating Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad to Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue in 2024.

The passing of Pope Francis initiates the sede vacante — a period when the Apostolic See of Rome is vacant. This phase follows the Universi Dominici Gregis, the apostolic constitution that outlines the rules for papal succession. After nine days of mourning, Cardinals will convene in the Sistine Chapel for a conclave to elect the next Pope.

Francis had requested to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, diverging from the tradition of internment at St. Peter’s Basilica. He had also simplified papal funeral rites, reflecting his lifelong commitment to humility and reform.

The Catholic Church now looks to the future, as the next pontiff will be tasked with leading the faithful through a time of global uncertainty and spiritual renewal.